Bardstown, KY—What began as a lighthearted scene of a man in a sandwich costume splashing around in a kiddie pool has taken a bizarre turn, as local authorities are now investigating allegations that the individual—known locally as “Sandwich Man”—has been stealing condiments from grocery and convenience stores across town. Witnesses allege he has been using the stolen items as personal lubricant.

The incident unfolded this past weekend when police were called to a suburban backyard after a neighbor reported “suspicious behavior” involving a man in an oversized sandwich costume. The man, later identified as 34-year-old Paul Turner, was found frolicking in a shallow pool while wearing his full costume, complete with lettuce, cheese, and tomato accents.

According to bodycam footage released by the Bardstown Police Department, officers initially arrived to investigate what appeared to be a harmless prank. However, the situation took a darker turn after a store manager from a nearby grocery chain recognized Turner from a string of thefts involving large quantities of condiments, including mayonnaise, mustard, and olive oil.

“We’ve had several incidents over the past month where bottles of condiments would disappear off our shelves,” said Jenna Collins, manager of a local convenience store. “We couldn’t figure out why anyone would need that much mayo—until we saw the news about the ‘Sandwich Man.’”

Turner allegedly admitted during questioning that he had a “special use” for the stolen items but refused to elaborate. Police sources, speaking under the condition of anonymity, revealed that Turner may have been using the condiments as a form of personal lubricant during his eccentric escapades.

“This is definitely one of the strangest cases we’ve encountered,” said Officer Lisa Matthews. “It’s not every day you’re dealing with a sandwich-themed theft ring and bizarre allegations like this. While we initially believed it to be a harmless misunderstanding, the thefts are a serious matter.”

Neighbors, who once saw Turner’s antics as harmless fun, are now divided in their opinions. “At first, we thought he was just a quirky guy trying to entertain the neighborhood,” said Karen Willis, who lives nearby. “But stealing condiments? That’s crossing the line.”

Turner, who works as a freelance entertainer, has denied the allegations of theft but admitted to purchasing condiments in “bulk quantities” for his performances. “The sandwich costume is part of my act,” Turner stated. “Everything else is just rumors. I’m innocent until proven guilty.”

Police are continuing their investigation, and charges could be filed if sufficient evidence links Turner to the thefts. Meanwhile, the story of the “Sandwich Man” has gone viral, with many online users expressing both fascination and disgust at the unusual allegations.

As the investigation unfolds, Turner’s antics have left residents of Bardstown both amused and unsettled. For now, the once-beloved Sandwich Man’s legacy appears to be smeared—literally and figuratively.